Princess Place Preserve

Once home to a Russian prince, this preserve on the Matanzas River offers access to a freshwater creek, salt marsh and woodland habitats. Upon entering, watch for Wild Turkey and Northern Bobwhite by the roadside. Between January and April follow the signs to the Bald Eagle nest viewing area. Next, stop at the parking area and check out the orange trail on the left for songbirds; there is hiking access to the marsh via the red trail. Watch for Tricolored Herons and alligators, Greater Yellowlegs and wintering ducks. The orange and yellow loop trails also lead to xeric (drier) sandhills and flatwoods habitats–watch for Swallow-tailed Kites and Red-headed Woodpeckers in the open areas. The ADA-accessible blue trail loops through a hardwood forest and out to an observation area on the edge of a salt marsh. Finally, when the road reaches the waterfront, it winds to the right around a private inholding and ends at the green trail. By following the green trail, you have better access to habitat that plays host to migratory songbirds in spring and fall; 20+ species of wood-warbler have been recorded. The trail ends by circling an old artesian fountain, around which Great Egrets and Great Blue Herons nest in season. Please be careful not to disturb nesting and resting birds, and respect the private property within this preserve. Kayaks can be rented onsite to explore Styles Creek, Pellicer Creek and the Matanzas River.